“The First Cut Is the Deepest” is a 1967 song written by Cat Stevens, originally released by P. P. Arnold in May 1967. Stevens’ version originally appeared on his album New Masters in December 1967.
The song has been widely covered and has become a hit single for four different artists: P. P. Arnold (1967), Keith Hampshire (1973), Rod Stewart (1977) and Sheryl Crow (2003). Here’s our favorite rendition performed by Rod Stewart.
Rod Stewart’s “The First Cut Is The Deepest”
I would have given you all of my heart
But there’s someone who’s torn it apart
And she’s taken just all that I had
But if you want I’ll try to love you again
Baby I’ll try to love again but I know
The first cut is the deepest
Baby, I know the first cut is the deepest
But when it comes to being lucky she’s cursed
When it comes to loving me she’s the worst
I still want you by my side
Just to help me dry the tears that I’ve cried
And I’m sure going to give you a try
And if you want I’ll try to love you again
Baby I’ll try to love again but I know
The first cut is the deepest
Baby, I know the first cut is the deepest
But when it comes to being lucky she’s cursed
When it comes to loving me she’s the worst
I still want you by my side
Just to help me dry the tears that I’ve cried
But I’m sure gonna give you a try
‘Cause if you want I’ll try to love again
Baby I’ll try to love again but I know
Wooh
The first cut is the deepest
Baby, I know the first cut is the deepest
When it comes to being lucky she’s cursed
When it comes to loving me she’s the worst
